Question:
Hi,

I'm new to this forum and would like some advice.

I've had type 2 genital H for about four years now and my obs are now between three and four months apart although this year I had a spell of about six months without one.

Reading through some of the posts on this site, I don't get it too badly even on my first OB.

I don't have a regular partner but when I get one would like to know if unprotected sex is always going to be off the cards when I have no symptoms.

I know asymptomatic shedding is a risk. Is there anything that can be done to reduce the risk of having the virus on the skin pre-sex such as washing etc which will reduce the risk of transmission?

Also, is it true that symptoms may eventually decist altogether eventually and if this is the case will I always be a carrier?

Any other tips would be greatly received. My doctor was useless when I was diagnosed.

Answer:
Most would agree that their doctors are "useless" when it comes to GH. Because you can transmit this virus through shedding...it is really up to you and your partner if you want to have unprotected sex. I did have a wonderful relationship for 1.5 years with a man that I told of H in the beginning. We did not have protected sex and as far as we know he has not tranmitted it. However...since we have parted ways[on good terms and not related to H], I aksed him if he told his current GF that he was exposed to GH and he said no. He thinks that because he has not shown symptoms he is ok. I feel though, like the girl he has been seeing and sleeping with has a right to know that he has been exposed to H.

My advice: have protected sex until marriage. Many marriages end in divorce, but the original intention is forever. It reduces the risk of people who end up as carriers w/ no symptoms passing it on to innocent others. I do not mean to offend anyone opposed to marriage in traditional terms, but I am referring to 'lifelong commitment'. Take care, and do what you feel is right for you, and beneficial to others as well. The more careful we are, the less people will be infected as we have been.

Condoms are considered a drag to most people in committed realtionships, but I would also like to mention non-latex Durex are a good alternative. Expensive, but worth it. Lambskin condoms do not protect against STDs only preganacy, but Durex are more like plastic and protect as well as latex. Also, remember condoms do not protect from shedding outside the sections covered by the condom! Something to consider anyhow. Let me know if you have more questions.

Answer:
Thanks Redford.

Are there any more people who can help me out here?